In vivo labeling of sunflower embryonic tissues by fluorescently labeled phenylalkylamine

A fluorescently labeled phenylalkylamine, DM-Bodipy PAA, was used as a probe for the in vivo detection of ion channels in embryonic and nonembryonic tissues of sunflower. Zygotic embryos, somatic embryos, callus, leaves, roots, and shoots were analysed. Fluorescence intensity in the tissues was determined with cytofluorometry and confocal microscopy. DM-Bodipy PAA intensively labeled the protoderm and epidermis cells in both zygotic and somatic embryos. Callus cultures exhibited labeling on sites where somatic embryos developed. Labeling was, however, very weak in leaves, shoots, and roots, except in the root cap and in the epidermis of the root. Considering that the location of phenylalkylamine binding sites is related to the distribution of ion channels in both animal and plant cells, the high intensity of labeling observed in the protoderm and epidermis of zygotic and somatic embryos as well as in protoderm, epidermis, and caps of root tips, is consistent with the role these tissues may play in ion exchange with the environment.